Department of Commerce: Newsroom Itemhttps://www.commerce.gov/feeds/news/opinion-editorials
The most recent 20 items in this list.enU.S. Department of Commerce Initiates Antidumping Duty and Countervailing Duty Investigations of Imports of Cast Iron Soil Pipe from Chinahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailing-0
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the initiation of new antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations to determine whether cast iron soil pipe from China is being dumped in the United States or if producers in China are receiving unfair subsidies.</p>
<p>“The Department will act swiftly, while assuring a full and fair assessment of the facts, to ensure that everyone trades on a level playing field,” said Secretary Ross. “The Trump administration is committed to the enforcement of America’s vital trade laws that ensure U.S. businesses and workers have a fair chance to compete.”</p>
<p>These AD and CVD investigations were initiated based on petitions filed by the Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute (Mundelein, IL<strong>)</strong> on January 26, 2018.</p>
<p>In the AD investigation, the Commerce Department will determine whether imports of cast iron soil pipe from China are being dumped in the U.S. market at less than fair value.</p>
<p>In the CVD investigation, the Commerce Department will determine whether Chinese producers of cast iron soil pipe are receiving government subsidies.</p>
<p>The estimated dumping margin alleged by the petitioner is 93.32 percent for China. The 32 subsidy programs alleged include five preferential loan and interest rate programs, three debt-to-equity swaps, equity infusions, and loan forgiveness programs, six income tax and other direct subsidy programs, three indirect tax programs, seven less-than-adequate remuneration, and eight grant programs.</p>
<p>From January 20, 2017, through February 15, 2018, the Commerce Department has initiated 96 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – an 81 percent increase from 52 in the previous period. The Commerce Department currently maintains 424 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department determines that cast iron soil pipe from China is being dumped into the U.S. market or that China is providing government subsidies, and if the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized U.S. imports of cast iron soil pipe from China are causing injury to the U.S. industry, the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.</p>
<p>In 2017, imports of cast iron soil pipe from China were valued at $11.5 million.</p>
<p>Click <a href="https://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-prc-cast-iron-soil-pipe-ad-cvd-initiation-021618.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on these initiations.</p>
<p><strong>Next Steps:</strong></p>
<p>During the Commerce Department’s investigations into whether cast iron soil pipe is being dumped and/or unfairly subsidized, the ITC will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports. The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before March 12, 2018. If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is injury or threat of injury, then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with a preliminary CVD determination scheduled for April 23, 2018, and preliminary AD determination scheduled for July 5, 2018, unless these deadlines are extended.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping and/or unfair subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing cast iron soil pipe from China.</p>
<p>Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for July 5, 2018, for the CVD investigation, and September 18, 2018, for the AD investigation, but those dates may be extended. If the Commerce Department finds that products are not being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the ITC finds in its final determinations there is no harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.</p>
<p>---</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to “antidumping” duties. Companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments, such as grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks and production inputs, are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
Fri, 16 Feb 2018 16:43:39 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailing-0Secretary Ross Releases Steel and Aluminum 232 Reports in Coordination with White Househttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/secretary-ross-releases-steel-and-aluminum-232-reports-coordination
<p>Today, Secretary Wilbur Ross released reports on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s investigations into the impact on our national security from imports of steel mill products and from imports of wrought and unwrought aluminum. These investigations were carried out under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended. All classified and business confidential information in the reports was redacted before the release.</p>
<p>“I am glad that we were able to provide this analysis and these recommendations to the President,” said Secretary Ross. “I look forward to his decision on any potential course of action.”</p>
<p>The Department of Commerce found that the quantities and circumstances of steel and aluminum imports “threaten to impair the national security,” as defined by Section 232.</p>
<p>The reports are currently under consideration by the President, and no final decisions have been made with regard to their contents. The President may take a range of actions, or no action, based on the analysis and recommendations provided in the reports. Action could include making modifications to the courses of action proposed, such as adjusting percentages.</p>
<p>The President is required to make a decision on the steel recommendations by April 11, 2018, and on the aluminum recommendations by April 19, 2018.</p>
<p><strong>Key Findings of the Steel Report:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>The United States is the world’s largest importer of steel. Our imports are nearly four times our exports.</li>
<li>Six basic oxygen furnaces and four electric furnaces have closed since 2000 and employment has dropped by 35% since 1998.</li>
<li>World steelmaking capacity is 2.4 billion metric tons, up 127% from 2000, while steel demand grew at a slower rate.</li>
<li>The recent global excess capacity is 700 million tons, almost 7 times the annual total of U.S. steel consumption. China is by far the largest producer and exporter of steel, and the largest source of excess steel capacity. Their excess capacity alone exceeds the total U.S. steel-making capacity.</li>
<li>On an average month, China produces nearly as much steel as the U.S. does in a year. For certain types of steel, such as for electrical transformers, only one U.S. producer remains.</li>
<li>As of February 15, 2018, the U.S. had 169 antidumping and countervailing duty orders in place on steel, of which 29 are against China, and there are 25 ongoing investigations.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Recommendations of the Steel Report:</strong></p>
<p>Secretary Ross has recommended to the President that he consider the following alternative remedies to address the problem of steel imports:</p>
<ol>
<li>A global tariff of at least 24% on all steel imports from all countries, or</li>
<li>A tariff of at least 53% on all steel imports from 12 countries (Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Egypt, India, Malaysia, Republic of Korea, Russia, South Africa, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam) with a quota by product on steel imports from all other countries equal to 100% of their 2017 exports to the United States, or</li>
<li>A quota on all steel products from all countries equal to 63% of each country’s 2017 exports to the United States.</li>
</ol>
<p>Each of these remedies is intended to increase domestic steel production from its present 73% of capacity to approximately an 80% operating rate, the minimum rate needed for the long-term viability of the industry. Each remedy applies measures to all countries and all steel products to prevent circumvention.</p>
<p>The tariffs and quotas would be in addition to any duties already in place. The report recommends that a process be put in place to allow the Secretary to grant requests from U.S. companies to exclude specific products if the U.S. lacks sufficient domestic capacity or for national security considerations. Any exclusions granted could result in changed tariffs or quotas for the remaining products to maintain the overall effect.</p>
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/sites/commerce.gov/files/the_effect_of_imports_of_steel_on_the_national_security_-_with_redactions_-_20180111.pdf" target="_blank">Click HERE to view the Steel Report with classified and business confidential information redacted.</a></p>
<p><strong>Key Findings of the Aluminum Report:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Aluminum imports have risen to 90% of total demand for primary aluminum, up from 66% in 2012.</li>
<li>From 2013 to 2016 aluminum industry employment fell by 58%, 6 smelters shut down, and only two of the remaining 5 smelters are operating at capacity, even though demand has grown considerably.</li>
<li>At today’s reduced military spending, military consumption of aluminum is a small percentage of total consumption and therefore is insufficient by itself to preserve the viability of the smelters. For example, there is only one remaining U.S. producer of the high-quality aluminum alloy needed for military aerospace. Infrastructure, which is necessary for our economic security, is a major use of aluminum.</li>
<li>The Commerce Department has recently brought trade cases to try to address the dumping of aluminum. As of February 15, 2018, the U.S. had two antidumping and countervailing duty orders in place on aluminum, both against China, and there are four ongoing investigations against China.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Recommendations of the Aluminum Report:</strong></p>
<p>Secretary Ross has recommended to President Trump three alternative remedies for dealing with the excessive imports of aluminum. These would cover both aluminum ingots and a wide variety of aluminum products.</p>
<ol>
<li>A tariff of at least 7.7% on all aluminum exports from all countries, or</li>
<li>A tariff of 23.6% on all products from China, Hong Kong, Russia, Venezuela and Vietnam. All the other countries would be subject to quotas equal to 100% of their 2017 exports to the United States, or</li>
<li>A quota on all imports from all countries equal to a maximum of 86.7% of their 2017 exports to the United States.</li>
</ol>
<p>Each of the three proposals is intended to raise production of aluminum from the present 48% average capacity to 80%, a level that would provide the industry with long-term viability. Each remedy applies measures to all countries and all steel products to prevent circumvention.</p>
<p>The tariffs and quotas would be in addition to any duties already in place. The report recommends that a process be put in place to allow the Secretary to grant requests from U.S. companies to exclude specific products if the U.S. lacks sufficient domestic capacity or for national security considerations. Any exclusions granted could result in changed tariffs or quotas for the remaining products to maintain the overall effect.</p>
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/sites/commerce.gov/files/the_effect_of_imports_of_aluminum_on_the_national_security_-_with_redactions_-_20180117.pdf" target="_blank">Click HERE to view the Aluminum Report.</a></p>
Fri, 16 Feb 2018 11:48:17 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/secretary-ross-releases-steel-and-aluminum-232-reports-coordinationU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Antidumping Duty Determination on Cast Iron Soil Pipe Fittings from the People&#039;s Republic of Chinahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determination in the antidumping duty (AD) investigation of imports of cast iron soil pipe fittings from China.</p>
<p>“Though politics plays no role in antidumping investigations, President Trump made it clear that we will vigorously enforce our trade laws and provide U.S. industry relief from unfair trade practices,” said Secretary Ross. “Today’s decision allows U.S. producers of cast iron soil pipe fittings to receive relief from the market-distorting effects of potential dumping while we continue our investigation.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department preliminarily determined that exporters from China have sold cast iron soil pipe fittings in the United States at 68.37 to 109.95 percent less than fair value.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decision, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of cast iron soil pipe fittings from China based on these preliminary rates.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of cast iron soil pipe fittings from China were valued at an estimated $8.6 million.</p>
<p>The petitioner is the Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute (IL), the members of which are AB&amp;I Foundry (CA), Charlotte Pipe &amp; Foundry (NC), and Tyler Pipe (TX).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, 2017, through February 9, 2018, the Commerce Department has initiated 94 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – an 81 percent increase from previous period.</p>
<p>The AD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with a mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 424 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Commerce is scheduled to announce the final determination in this investigation on or about June 28, 2018. If Commerce makes an affirmative final determination of dumping and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes affirmative final injury determination, Commerce will issue an AD order. If Commerce makes a negative final determination of dumping or the ITC makes a negative final determination of injury, the investigation will be terminated and no order will be issued.</p>
<p>Click <a href="https://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-prc-cast-iron-soil-pipe-fittings-ad-prelim-021418.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to antidumping duties.</p>
Wed, 14 Feb 2018 11:36:59 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-dutyU.S. Department of Commerce Initiates Antidumping Duty and Countervailing Duty Investigations of Imports of Large Diameter Welded Pipe from Canada, Greece, China, India, Korea, and Turkeyhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailing
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the initiation of new antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations to determine whether imports of large diameter welded pipe from Canada, China, Greece, India, Korea, and Turkey are being dumped in the United States and/or if producers are receiving unfair subsidies.</p>
<p>“With an 81 percent increase in trade cases initiated since President Trump took office, this Administration has made it clear that we will vigorously administer antidumping and countervailing duty laws,” said Secretary Ross. “When initiating a trade investigation, the Department of Commerce begins an open and transparent process that allows American companies and workers to gain relief from the market-distorting effects of injurious dumping and subsidization of imports.”</p>
<p>These AD and CVD investigations were initiated based on petitions filed by American Cast Iron Pipe Company (Birmingham, AL), Berg Steel Pipe Corp. (Panama City, FL), Dura-Bond Industries (Steelton, PA), Skyline Steel (Parsippany, NJ), and Stupp Corporation (Baton Rouge, LA). The estimated dumping margins alleged by the petitioners are 50.89 percent for Canada, 41.04 percent for Greece, 120.84 to 132.63 percent for China, 37.94 percent for India, 16.18 to 20.39 percent for Korea, and 66.09 percent for Turkey. The unfair subsidy programs alleged include export subsidies, inputs for less-than-adequate-remuneration, tax incentives, and subsidized loans from China, India, Korea, and Turkey.</p>
<p>In the AD investigations, the Commerce Department will determine whether imports of large diameter welded pipe from Canada, Greece, China, India, Korea, and/or Turkey are being dumped in the U.S. market at less than fair value. </p>
<p>In the CVD investigations, the Commerce Department will determine whether imports of large diameter welded pipe from China, India, Korea, and/or Turkey are receiving government subsidies.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department makes affirmative findings in these investigations, and if the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized U.S. imports of large diameter welded pipe from Canada, Greece, China, India, Korea, and/or Turkey are causing injury to the U.S. industry, the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of large diameter welded pipe from Canada, China, India, Greece, Korea, and Turkey were valued at an estimated $66 million, $139 million, $26 million, $70 million, $150.3 million, and $116.1 million, respectively.</p>
<p>From January 20, 2017, through February 9, 2018, the Commerce Department has initiated 94 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – <strong>an 81 percent increase from the previous period.</strong> The Commerce Department currently maintains 424 AD and CVD orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-large-diameter-welded-line-pipe-ad-cvd-initiations-021218.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on these initiations.</p>
<p><strong>Next Steps:</strong></p>
<p>During the Commerce Department’s investigations into whether large diameter welded pipe is being dumped and/or unfairly subsidized, the ITC will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports. The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before March 5, 2018. If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is injury or threat of injury, then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with preliminary CVD determinations scheduled for April 16, 2018, and preliminary AD determinations scheduled for June 29, 2018, unless these deadlines are extended. </p>
<p>If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping and/or unfair subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing large diameter welded pipe from Canada, Greece, China, India, Korea, and/or Turkey.</p>
<p>Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for July 2, 2018, for the CVD investigations, and September 12, 2018, for the AD investigations, but those dates may be extended. If the Commerce Department finds that the imports subject to the investigations are not being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the ITC finds in its final determinations there is no harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to “antidumping” duties. Companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments, such as grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks and production inputs, are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
Tue, 13 Feb 2018 09:30:06 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailingSecretary Ross Statement on Release of President Trump’s “American Budget” for 2019https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/secretary-ross-statement-release-president-trumps-american-budget-2019
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross released the following statement on the release of the President’s fiscal year 2019 budget - “An American Budget.”</p>
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/sites/commerce.gov/files/us_department_of_commerce_budget_in_brief_fiscal_year_2019.pdf" target="_blank">Please click HERE to view the Department of Commerce “Budget in Brief.”</a></p>
<p><strong>Statement from Secretary Ross:</strong></p>
<p><em>President Trump is once again keeping his promises with a 2019 budget that sets forth an aggressive strategy to keep this country safe, promote economic growth, and curb wasteful Washington spending.</em></p>
<p><em>It includes a visionary plan to rebuild our nation’s crumbling infrastructure. President Trump’s bold leadership will remove unnecessary bureaucratic barriers that stand in the way of new projects, and leverage $200 billion in Federal funds to spur over $1.5 trillion in investment across urban and rural America.</em></p>
<p><em>At Commerce, the budget invests in critical institutions that form the bedrock of our modern republic. It provides Census with the funding it needs to ensure a full, fair, and accurate 2020 Census, a solemn Constitutional duty of the Department. It also supports the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) satellite fleet and the National Weather Service, which save countless lives each year by providing accurate and timely weather forecasts.</em></p>
<p><em>The budget provides the Bureau of Economic Analysis, Census, and NOAA with the resources they need to produce high-quality data that are the foundation of many American enterprises from agriculture, to manufacturing, to financial services. It also funds our efforts to modernize the way our government promotes minority-owned businesses, positioning the Minority Business Development Agency to help set policy and advocate across all Federal programs.</em></p>
<p><em>“An American Budget” helps secure America’s leadership role in the global economy by increasing funding to the Bureau of Industry and Security and the International Trade Administration’s Enforcement and Compliance section while continuing support for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. These investments will help us ensure trade is fair, reciprocal, and secure while safeguarding American innovators and technology.</em></p>
<p><em>The budget will also help propel our economy into the future, providing resources for the National Institute of Standards and Technology to set standards for cutting-edge industries and lay the groundwork for new and exciting technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration also receives the funding it needs to prepare for the crucial rollout of 5G technology to every corner of America.</em></p>
<p><em>Taken in sum, “An American Budget” will provide for a bright future that is strong, safe, and prosperous.</em></p>
<p><a href="//www.commerce.gov/sites/commerce.gov/files/us_department_of_commerce_budget_in_brief_fiscal_year_2019.pdf" target="_blank">Please click HERE to view the Department of Commerce “Budget in Brief.”</a></p>
Mon, 12 Feb 2018 16:15:47 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/secretary-ross-statement-release-president-trumps-american-budget-2019U.S. Secretary of Commerce Declares Fisheries Disasters Following Hurricanes Irma and Maria https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-secretary-commerce-declares-fisheries-disasters-following-hurricanes
<p>Today, in conjunction with the requests put forward by the Governors of Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross determined catastrophic fishery disasters occurred in the areas because of impacts from Hurricanes Irma and Maria that made landfall in August and September of 2017.</p>
<p>Under the Interjurisdictional Fisheries Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Governors asked the Secretary of Commerce to determine whether a commercial fishery failure occurred due to a fishery resource disaster, in these cases caused by destructive hurricanes.</p>
<p>“The Department of Commerce and NOAA support the rebuilding efforts of communities across the Gulf which were devastated by hurricanes in the past year,” said Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross. “This declaration provides a path forward to helping fishermen and businesses recover and grow.”</p>
<p>Through these fishery disaster declarations, participants in the fisheries are now eligible for Small Business Administration disaster loans. Additionally, because these fisheries are in areas declared a Presidential disaster, public fishery infrastructure-related losses are eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency Public Assistance. Economic Development Administration grants and Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery funds are another potential source of assistance for fisheries pending allocations and grantee Action Plans.</p>
<p>NOAA looks forward to working closely with Congress and Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico to continue to support recovery efforts.</p>
<p>NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and our other social media channels.</p>
Fri, 09 Feb 2018 11:12:41 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-secretary-commerce-declares-fisheries-disasters-following-hurricanesU.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross Appoints Public Safety, Business Leaders to the First Responder Network Authority Boardhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-appoints-public-safety-business
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the appointment of four members to serve on the Board of the FirstNet Responder Network Authority. The appointees are leading experts in the fields of public safety, wireless broadband technology, and network engineering.</p>
<p>The Board will oversee the activities of FirstNet to ensure that AT&amp;T develops, builds, and operates a nationwide broadband network that will best equip first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities.</p>
<p>“With all 50 states and several territories participating in FirstNet, these appointed board members will leverage their decades of experience in public service and the private sector to ensure FirstNet provides the world-class communications network our emergency responders need,” said Secretary Ross. “I applaud them for their willingness to serve on the board to help save lives and keep communities safe.”</p>
<p>Secretary Ross appointed the following three individuals to the FirstNet Board for three-year terms:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Richard Ross, Police Commissioner</strong>, City of Philadelphia, which is one of the largest police departments in the nation with more than 6300 sworn members and 800 civilian personnel.</li>
<li><strong>David Zolet, Chief Executive Officer</strong>, LMI, who has more than 30 years of corporate experience and leadership roles in business development, engineering, strategic planning, and customer relations.</li>
<li><strong>Robert Osterthaler, Consultant and Strategic Advisor</strong>, focusing primarily on communications networks and government programs. He also served for 28 years in the US Air Force, retiring as a Brigadier General in 1997.</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition, Secretary Ross reappointed one current Board member to serve in a new three-year term:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Richard W. Stanek, Sheriff</strong>, Hennepin County (Minnesota), who serves on the FirstNet Consultation and Outreach Committee. He is a member of the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) Executive Committee and chairs the NSA’s Homeland Security Committee.</li>
</ul>
<p>“These individuals will serve our nation well by providing expertise from both the private sector and public safety community,” said Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator David Redl. “I want to thank them for serving during this important time for FirstNet.”</p>
<p><strong>Background:</strong></p>
<p>The First Responder Network Authority is an independent entity within the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). FirstNet’s mission is to ensure the building, deployment, and operation of the nationwide broadband network that equips first responders to save lives and protect U.S. communities. In March 2017, the Department of Commerce and FirstNet <a href="//www.commerce.gov/news/secretary-speeches/2017/03/us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-announces-firstnet-public-private" target="_blank">announced a partnership with AT&amp;T</a> to build and operate and the first responder network. It will deliver the technologies and infrastructure that public safety desperately needs for day-to-day operations, disaster response and recovery, and securing of large events.</p>
<p>The Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012 created FirstNet, and Congress directed that FirstNet be governed by a 15-person Board, with the Secretary of Homeland Security, the U.S. Attorney General, and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget named as permanent Board members. Congress charged the Secretary of Commerce with selecting the remaining 12 members.</p>
<p>To view the bios of the FirstNet Board, visit: <a href="https://www.firstnet.gov/board/members" target="_blank">Firstnet.gov/board/members</a>. To learn more about FirstNet, visit <a href="https://www.firstnet.gov/" target="_blank">Firstnet.gov</a>.</p>
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:33:03 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/02/us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-appoints-public-safety-businessStatement from U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross on President Trump&#039;s State of the Union Addresshttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-president-trumps-state-union
<p>President Trump’s State of the Union Address was the best in recent memory: it included the largest tax cuts in history, record stock prices, and record low unemployment – especially for minorities. He spoke of a $1.5 trillion plan to fix our nation’s infrastructure, and his policies that have driven out ISIS, will equip our military, will secure our border, will ensure a future for dreamers, and will promote trade that is both fair and reciprocal. What more could we want? These inspirational plans for a safe, strong, and proud America will continue the extraordinary momentum of President Trump’s first term. Bravo!</p>
Tue, 30 Jan 2018 22:57:28 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-us-secretary-commerce-wilbur-ross-president-trumps-state-unionU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Antidumping Duty Determination on Certain Tapered Bearings from Koreahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty-1
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determination in the antidumping duty (AD) investigation of imports of certain tapered roller bearings from the Republic of Korea (Korea).</p>
<p>“The United States values its relationship with Korea, but our trading partners must play by the rules,” said Secretary Ross. “We will continue to review all information related to this case before making our final determination.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department preliminarily determined that exporters from Korea have sold certain tapered roller bearings in the United States at 21.23 percent to 45.53 percent less than fair value.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decision, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of certain tapered roller bearings from Korea based on these preliminary rates./p&gt;</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of certain tapered roller bearings from Korea were valued at an estimated $60.1 million.</p>
<p>The petitioner is The Timken Company (OH).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. Through the first year of the Trump Administration, the Department of Commerce initiated 84 AD and CVD cases – a 58 percent increase when compared to the final year of the Obama Administration.</p>
<p>The AD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 422 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Commerce is scheduled to announce the final determination in this investigation on or about April 16, 2018, although this deadline may be extended.</p>
<p>If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations of dumping and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes an affirmative final injury determination, Commerce will issue an AD order. If Commerce makes a negative final determination of dumping or the ITC makes a negative final determination of injury, the investigation will be terminated and no order will be issued.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-korea-tapered-roller-bearings-ad-prelim-013018.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to antidumping duties.</p>
Tue, 30 Jan 2018 18:22:46 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty-1U.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Antidumping Duty Determinations on Low Melt Polyester Staple Fiber from Korea and Taiwanhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty-0
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) investigations of imports of low melt polyester staple fiber from Korea and Taiwan.</p>
<p>“Today’s decision allows U.S. producers of low melt polyester staple fiber to receive relief from the market-distorting effects of foreign producers dumping their goods into the domestic market,” said Secretary Ross. “Though politics plays no role in antidumping investigations, President Trump made it clear that we will vigorously enforce our trade laws and provide U.S. industry relief from unfair trade practices.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department preliminarily determined that exporters from Korea and Taiwan have sold low melt polyester staple fiber in the United States at 0.00 to 16.48 percent and 52.00 percent less than fair value, respectively.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decision, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of imports of low melt polyester staple fiber from Korea and Taiwan based on these preliminary rates.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of low melt polyester staple fiber from Korea and Taiwan were valued at an estimated $76.6 million and $26.8 million, respectively.</p>
<p>The petitioner is Nan Ya Plastics Corporation, America (SC).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration.</p>
<p>Through the first year of the Trump Administration, the Department of Commerce initiated 84 AD and CVD cases – a 58 percent increase when compared to the final year of the Obama Administration.</p>
<p>The AD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 412 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Commerce is scheduled to announce the final determinations in these investigations on or about June 8, 2018. If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations of dumping and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue AD orders. If Commerce makes negative final determinations of dumping or the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-low-melt-polyester-staple-fiber-ad-prelim-012918.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to antidumping duties.</p>
Tue, 30 Jan 2018 09:23:18 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty-0Statement from the Department of Commerce on Submission of Aluminum Section 232 Report to the President https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-department-commerce-submission-aluminum-section-232-report
<p>On Friday, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross formally submitted to President Donald J. Trump the results of the Department’s investigation into the effect of wrought and unwrought aluminum imports on U.S. national security. After this submission, by law the President has 90 days to decide on any potential action based on the findings of the investigation. After the President’s decision is announced, the Department will publish a summary of the report in the Federal Register and make the report available to the public after removing any business confidential or classified material.</p>
Mon, 22 Jan 2018 10:37:21 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-department-commerce-submission-aluminum-section-232-reportU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Final Determinations on Fine Denier Polyester Staple Fiber from China and Indiahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-final-determinations-fine
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative final determinations in the countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of fine denier polyester staple fiber from the People’s Republic of China (China) and India, finding that exporters from China and India received countervailable subsidies of 41.73 to 47.55 percent and 9.50 to 25.28 percent, respectively.</p>
<p>The Commerce Department will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect cash deposits from importers of fine denier polyester staple fiber from China and India based on these final rates.</p>
<p>“The United States will no longer sit back and watch as its domestic businesses are destroyed by unfair foreign government subsidies,” said Secretary Ross. “We will continue to take action on behalf of U.S. industry to defend American businesses, workers, and communities adversely impacted by unfair imports.”</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of fine denier polyester staple fiber from China and India were valued at an estimated $79.4 million and $14.8 million, respectively.</p>
<p>The petitioners are DAK Americas LLC (NC), Nan Ya Plastics Corporation, America (SC), and Auriga Polymers Inc. (NC).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, 2017, through January 17, 2018, Commerce has initiated 84 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 62 percent increase from 52 in the previous year.</p>
<p>The CVD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair subsidization of imports into the United States. The Commerce Department currently maintains 418 antidumping duty and CVD orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) is conducting investigations to determine whether or not the domestic industry is harmed by imports of fine denier polyester staple fiber from China and India. The ITC is currently scheduled to make its final injury determinations on or before March 2, 2018.</p>
<p>If the ITC makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue CVD orders. If the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-fine-denier-polyester-staple-fiber-cvd-final-011718.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decisions.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international rules and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Imports from companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments in the form of grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks and production inputs are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
<p>In fiscal year 2016, the United States collected $1.5 billion in duties on $14 billion of imported goods, found to be underpriced, or subsidized by foreign governments.</p>
Wed, 17 Jan 2018 18:51:45 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-final-determinations-fineU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Determinations on Stainless Steel Flanges from the People’s Republic of China and Indiahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-determinations
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determinations in the countervailing duty (CVD) investigations of stainless steel flanges from the People’s Republic of China (China) and India, finding that exporters in China and India received countervailable subsidies of 174.73 percent, and from 5.00 to 239.61 percent, respectively.</p>
<p>The Commerce Department will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to collect cash deposits from importers of stainless steel flanges from China and India based on these preliminary rates.</p>
<p>“With a 58 percent increase in trade cases initiated since President Trump took office, this Administration has made it a clear priority to defend domestic businesses from unfair trade practices,” said Secretary Ross. “Today’s preliminary decision allows U.S. producers to receive relief from the market-distorting effects of potential government subsidies while we continue our investigation.”</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of stainless steel flanges from China and India were valued at an estimated $16.3 million and $32.1 million, respectively.</p>
<p>The petitioners are the Coalition of American Flange Producers and its individual members: Core Pipe Products, Inc. (Carol Stream, IL) and Maass Flange Corporation (Houston, TX).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, 2017, through January 17, 2018, Commerce has initiated 84 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 62 percent increase from 52 in the previous year.</p>
<p>CVD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair subsidization of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 418 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Commerce is currently scheduled to announce its final CVD determinations on April 3, 2018, and May 29, 2018, for China and India, respectively.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department makes affirmative final determinations of subsidization and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue CVD orders. If the Commerce Department makes negative final determinations of subsidization or the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no order will be issued.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-stainless-steel-flanges-cvd-prelim-011718.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decisions.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international rules and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Imports from companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments in the form of grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks and production inputs are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
Wed, 17 Jan 2018 18:25:00 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-determinationsU.S. Department of Commerce Initiates Antidumping Duty and Countervailing Duty Investigations of Imports of Certain Plastic Decorative Ribbon from China https://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailing
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the initiation of new antidumping duty (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) investigations to determine whether certain plastic decorative ribbon from China is being dumped in the United States or if producers in China are receiving unfair subsidies.</p>
<p>“When a trade case is initiated it begins an open and transparent process that allows American companies, workers, and communities to gain relief from the market-distorting effects of injurious dumping and subsidization of imports,” said Secretary Ross. “The Department will act swiftly, while completing a full and fair assessment of the facts, to ensure that U.S. businesses and workers have a fair chance to compete.”</p>
<p>These AD and CVD investigations were initiated based on petitions filed by Berwick Offray, LLC (Berwick, PA) on December 27, 2017. The estimated dumping margins alleged by the petitioner range from 74.34 to 370.04 percent for China. The subsidy programs alleged include preferential lending, various tax incentives and export assistance, and the provision of plastic inputs by the government of China at less than adequate remuneration.</p>
<p>In the AD investigation, the Commerce Department will determine whether imports of certain plastic decorative ribbon from China are being dumped in the U.S. market at less than fair value.</p>
<p>In the CVD investigation, the Commerce Department will determine whether Chinese producers of certain plastic decorative ribbon are receiving government subsidies.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department determines that certain plastic decorative ribbon from China is being dumped into the U.S. market or that China is providing government subsidies, and if the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) determines that dumped and/or unfairly subsidized U.S. imports of certain plastic decorative ribbon from China are causing injury to the U.S. industry, the Commerce Department will impose duties on those imports in the amount of dumping and/or unfair subsidization found to exist.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of certain plastic decorative ribbon from China were valued at an estimated $18.1 million.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-prc-plastic-decorative-ribbons-ad-cvd-initiation-011718.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on these initiations.</p>
<p><strong>Next Steps:</strong></p>
<p>During the Commerce Department’s investigations into whether certain plastic decorative ribbon is being dumped and/or unfairly subsidized, the ITC will conduct its own investigations into whether the U.S. industry and its workforce are being harmed by such imports. The ITC will make its preliminary determinations on or before February 12, 2018. If the ITC preliminarily determines that there is injury or threat of injury, then the Commerce Department investigations will continue, with a preliminary CVD determination scheduled for March 22, 2018, and preliminary AD determination scheduled for June 5, 2018, unless these deadlines are extended.</p>
<p>If the Commerce Department preliminarily determines that dumping and/or unfair subsidization is occurring, then it will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to start collecting cash deposits from all U.S. companies importing certain plastic decorative ribbon from China.</p>
<p>Final determinations by the Commerce Department in these cases are scheduled for June 5, 2018, for the CVD investigation, and August 20, 2018, for the AD investigation, but those dates may be extended. If the Commerce Department finds that products are not being dumped or unfairly subsidized, or the ITC finds in its final determinations there is no harm to the U.S. industry, then the investigations will be terminated and no duties will be applied.</p>
<p>---</p>
<p>From January 20, 2017, through January 16, 2018, the Commerce Department has initiated 84 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 62 percent increase from 52 in the previous period. The Commerce Department currently maintains 418 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to “antidumping” duties. Companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments, such as grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks and production inputs, are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
Wed, 17 Jan 2018 17:59:17 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-initiates-antidumping-duty-and-countervailingStatement from the Department of Commerce on Submission of Steel Section 232 Report to the Presidenthttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-department-commerce-submission-steel-section-232-report
<p>Today, Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross formally submitted to President Donald J. Trump the results of the Department’s investigation into the effect of steel mill product imports on U.S. national security. After this submission, by law, the President has 90 days to decide on any potential action based on the findings of the investigation. After the President’s decision is announced, the Department will publish a summary of the report in the Federal Register and make the report available to the public after removing any business confidential or classified material.</p>
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 20:04:33 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/statement-department-commerce-submission-steel-section-232-reportU.S. Department of Commerce Finds Dumping of Imports of Carbon and Alloy Steel Wire Rod from South Africa and Ukrainehttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-finds-dumping-imports-carbon-and-alloy-steel-wire
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative final determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) investigations of imports of carbon and alloy steel wire rod (wire rod) from South Africa and Ukraine.</p>
<p>“Today’s decision allows U.S. producers of carbon and alloy steel wire rod to receive relief from the market-distorting effects of foreign producers dumping their goods into the domestic market,” said Secretary Ross. “While the United States values its relationship with South Africa and Ukraine even our closest friends must play by the rules.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department determined that exporters from South Africa and Ukraine sold wire rod in the United States at 135.46 to 142.26 percent and 34.98 to 44.03 percent less than fair value, respectively.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decisions, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of wire rod from South Africa, and Ukraine based on these final rates.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of carbon and alloy steel wire rod from South Africa and Ukraine were valued at an estimated $7.1 million and $55 million, respectively.</p>
<p>The petitioners are Gerdau Ameristeel US Inc. (FL), Nucor Corporation (NC), Keystone Consolidated Industries (TX), and Charter Steel (WI).</p>
<p>With regard to next steps, if the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue AD orders. If the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, 2017, through January 9, 2018, Commerce has initiated 82 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 58 percent increase from 52 in the previous year.</p>
<p>The AD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 418 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-carbon-alloy-steel-wire-rod-ad-final-010918.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision(s).</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to AD duties.</p>
Wed, 10 Jan 2018 09:48:29 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-finds-dumping-imports-carbon-and-alloy-steel-wireU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Countervailing Duty Determination on Uncoated Groundwood Paper from Canadahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-countervailing
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determination in the countervailing duty (CVD) investigation of imports of uncoated groundwood paper from Canada.</p>
<p>“Today’s preliminary decision allows U.S. producers to receive relief from the market-distorting effects of potential government subsidies while taking into account the need to keep groundwood paper prices affordable for domestic consumers,” said Secretary Ross. “The Department of Commerce will continue to evaluate and verify the accuracy of this preliminary determination while standing up for the American business and worker.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department preliminarily determined that exporters from Canada received countervailable subsidies ranging from 4.42 to 9.93 percent.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decision, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of uncoated groundwood paper from Canada based on these preliminary rates.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of uncoated groundwood paper from Canada were valued at an estimated $1.27 billion.</p>
<p>The petitioner is North Pacific Paper Company (WA).</p>
<p>Commerce is currently scheduled to announce its final CVD determination on or about May 22, 2018. If Commerce makes an affirmative final determination and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes an affirmative final injury determination, Commerce will issue a CVD order. If Commerce makes a negative final determination or the ITC makes a negative final determination of injury, the investigation will be terminated and no order will be issued.</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, 2017, through January 9, 2018, Commerce has initiated 82 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 58 percent increase from 52 in the previous year.</p>
<p>The CVD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of foreign government unfair subsidization of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 418 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-canada-uncoated-groundwood-paper-cvd-prelim-010918.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Imports from companies that receive unfair subsidies from their governments in the form of grants, loans, equity infusions, tax breaks, and low-priced production inputs are subject to “countervailing duties” aimed at directly countering those subsidies.</p>
Wed, 10 Jan 2018 09:28:33 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-countervailingU.S. Departments of Commerce, Homeland Security Release Preliminary Report on Promoting Action Against Botnets and Other Automated Threatshttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-departments-commerce-homeland-security-release-preliminary-report
<p>Today, the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security released a <a href="https://www.ntia.doc.gov/report/2018/report-president-enhancing-resilience-internet-and-communications-ecosystem-against" target="_blank">draft report</a> to President Trump in response to the May 11, 2017, Presidential Executive Order on Strengthening the Cybersecurity of Federal Networks and Critical Infrastructure.</p>
<p>“Cybersecurity is perhaps one of the most serious threats we face,” said Secretary Ross. “President Trump understands the necessity of strengthening our networks and this Administration is doing everything in its power to prevent bad actors from infiltrating our critical cyber infrastructure.”</p>
<p>The report, which was created with broad input from stakeholders and experts, summarizes the opportunities and challenges in reducing the botnet threat and offers supporting actions to be taken by both the government and private sector in order to reduce the threat of automated cyber-attacks. The report lists five complementary goals that would improve the resilience of the ecosystem:</p>
<ol>
<li>Identify a clear pathway toward an adaptable, sustainable, and secure technology marketplace</li>
<li>Promote innovation in the infrastructure for dynamic adaptation to evolving threats</li>
<li>Promote innovation at the edge of the network to prevent, detect, and mitigate bad behavior</li>
<li>Build coalitions between the security, infrastructure, and operational technology communities domestically and around the world</li>
<li>Increase awareness and education across the ecosystem</li>
</ol>
<p>“Botnets represent a system-wide threat that no single stakeholder, not even the federal government, can address alone,” said Walter G. Copan, Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. “The report recommends a comprehensive way for the public and private sectors, as well as our international partners, to work together and strengthen our defenses.”</p>
<p>“Botnets threaten to undermine the internet ecosystem as well as the promise of next-generation technologies,” said Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information and NTIA Administrator David Redl. “This report clearly demonstrates the urgency of the problem and this Administration’s commitment to taking on these threats and creating a more secure and sustainable internet.”</p>
<p>The report identifies six principal themes:</p>
<ol>
<li>Automated, distributed attacks are a global problem.</li>
<li>Effective tools exist but are not widely used.</li>
<li>Products should be secured during all stages of the lifecycle.</li>
<li>Education and awareness are needed.</li>
<li>Market incentives are misaligned.</li>
<li>Automated, distributed attacks are an ecosystem-wide challenge.</li>
</ol>
<p>The Department of Commerce is requesting comment on the report, seeking a response to the issues raised and goals it identifies, as well as the proposed approach, current initiatives, and next steps.</p>
<p>Following the comment period, the Department of Commerce will host a two-day workshop to discuss a way forward. The workshop will be held February 28 and March 1 at the National Institute of Standards and Technology's National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence in Rockville, Md. A final report, incorporating comments and other feedback received, is due to the President on May 11, 2018.</p>
<p>All interested stakeholders are encouraged to comment on the draft report. Comments must be received by <strong>5 p.m. Eastern Time on February 12, 2018</strong>. Written comments may be submitted by email to <a href="mailto:Counter_Botnet@list.commerce.gov">Counter_Botnet@list.commerce.gov</a>.</p>
Fri, 05 Jan 2018 15:07:44 -0500abowman@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-departments-commerce-homeland-security-release-preliminary-reportDigital Trade in North Americahttps://www.commerce.gov/news/fact-sheets/2018/01/digital-trade-north-america
<p>As internet access and reliance grows, so does the potential for digital cross-border trade. Building on other work from the Department of Commerce's Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) and Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), this report, which serves to inform policymakers, business leaders and others, summarizes estimates of U.S. digital trade with Canada and Mexico.</p>
<p>We cannot definitively identify the value of U.S. digital trade because official trade statistics do not contain information on the mode of delivery of services. However, the official international trade in services statistics, as well as other information published by BEA and other organizations, does provide insights on how digital trade impacts the U.S. economy. In particular, BEA produces estimates on the international trade of information and communications technology (ICT) services and "potentially" ICT-enabled (PICTE) services, which are services that can be traded remotely using the internet or some other digital network.</p>
<p>This report shows that in 2016:</p>
<ul>
<li>PICTE services accounted for 54 percent of all U.S. services exports, 48 percent of all services imports, and 64 percent of the trade in services surplus.</li>
<li>U.S. PICTE services exports to Canada totaled $27.8 billion, or 52 percent of all U.S. services exports to Canada and 7 percent of total</li>
<li>U.S. PICTE exports to all trading partners. The United States imported $13.9 billion in PICTE services from Canada, equal to 46 percent of all services imports from Canada and 6 percent of total PICTE services imports.</li>
<li>U.S. PICTE service exports to Mexico totaled $8.8 billion, or 27 percent of all U.S. services exports to Mexico and 2 percent of total</li>
<li>U.S. PICTE exports to all trading partners. The United States imported $4.8 billion in PICTE from Mexico, equal to 19 percent of all services imports from Mexico and 2 percent of total PICTE services imports.</li>
<li>U.S. PICTE services exports to Canada increased at an average annual rate of 4.0 percent from 2006 to 2016. The growth of U.S. exports of these services to Mexico was even faster, at 5.5 percent.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally, there is evidence that multinational firms are exchanging data and information across North America. Canadian and Mexican affiliates of U.S. multinationals rely on data flows to carry out business operations, as well as for a wide variety of additional uses. While the Department of Commerce does not have specific data on the volume of these data flows, BEA does publish data that show the presence of U.S. affiliates in these countries, supporting the notion that data is flowing across borders.</p>
Fri, 05 Jan 2018 14:13:43 -0500solshefski@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/fact-sheets/2018/01/digital-trade-north-americaU.S. Department of Commerce Issues Affirmative Preliminary Antidumping Duty Determinations on Citric Acid and Certain Citrate Salts from Belgium, Colombia and Thailandhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty
<p>Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross announced the affirmative preliminary determinations in the antidumping duty (AD) investigations of imports of citric acid and certain citrate salts from Belgium, Colombia, and Thailand.</p>
<p>“Though politics plays no role in antidumping and countervailing duty investigations, President Trump made it clear that we will vigorously enforce our trade laws and provide U.S. industry relief from unfair trade practices,” said Secretary Ross. “Today’s decision allows U.S. producers of citric acid to receive&amp; relief from the market-distorting effects of potential dumping while we continue our investigation.”</p>
<p>The Commerce Department preliminarily determined that exporters from Belgium, Colombia, and Thailand have sold citric acid and certain citrate salts in the United States at 4.77 percent to 27.48 percent less than fair value.</p>
<p>As a result of today’s decision, Commerce will instruct U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to collect cash deposits from importers of citric acid and certain citrate salts from Belgium (24.41 percent), Colombia (27.48 percent), and Thailand (4.77 percent to 15.73 percent) based on these preliminary rates.</p>
<p>In 2016, imports of citric acid and certain citrate salts from Belgium, Colombia, and Thailand were valued at an estimated $10.2 million, $26.5 million, and $49.9 million, respectively.</p>
<p>The petitioners are Archer Daniels Midland Company (IL), Cargill, Incorporated (MN), and Tate &amp; Lyle Ingredients Americas LLC (IL).</p>
<p>Enforcement of U.S. trade law is a prime focus of the Trump administration. From January 20, through December 31, 2017, Commerce has initiated 82 antidumping and countervailing duty investigations – a 58 percent increase from 48 in the previous year.</p>
<p>The AD law provides U.S. businesses and workers with an internationally accepted mechanism to seek relief from the harmful effects of unfair pricing of imports into the United States. Commerce currently maintains 412 antidumping and countervailing duty orders which provide relief to American companies and industries impacted by unfair trade.</p>
<p>Commerce is scheduled to announce the final determinations in these investigations on or about May 14, 2018.</p>
<p>If Commerce makes affirmative final determinations of dumping and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) makes affirmative final injury determinations, Commerce will issue AD orders. If Commerce makes negative final determinations of dumping or the ITC makes negative final determinations of injury, the investigations will be terminated and no orders will be issued.&amp;</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://enforcement.trade.gov/download/factsheets/factsheet-multiple-citric-acid-citrate-salts-ad-prelim-010218.pdf" target="_blank">HERE</a> for a fact sheet on today’s decision.</p>
<p>The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Enforcement and Compliance unit within the International Trade Administration is responsible for vigorously enforcing U.S. trade laws and does so through an impartial, transparent process that abides by international law and is based solely on factual evidence.</p>
<p>Foreign companies that price their products in the U.S. market below the cost of production or below prices in their home markets are subject to antidumping duties.</p>
Tue, 02 Jan 2018 19:32:26 -0500kcpullen@doc.govhttps://www.commerce.gov/news/press-releases/2018/01/us-department-commerce-issues-affirmative-preliminary-antidumping-duty